Cruise Lines & Ships

 
The first step to selecting your perfect cruise is finding the right cruise ship—and cruise line.

Ships can range from 5,000 passenger vessels to 200-person yachts. You should also consider a ship’s atmosphere. While some cruise lines cater to families, others are geared toward romance. Still others have a more upscale ambience.

Sponsored by: Norwegian Cruise Lines


Cruises by Line
While each cruise line is distinct, most of the larger cruise lines will have common amenities. With multiple entertainment offerings and broad appeal, cruise lines like Norwegian, Carnival, and Royal Caribbean are the most popular options for first time cruisers.

  = Most popular for first time cruisers
Norwegian Cruise Lines Azamara Cruises
Carnival Cruise Lines Celebrity Cruises Costa Cruises Crystal Cruises
Cunard Line Disney Cruise Line Holland America Line MSC Cruises Princess Cruises Oceania Cruises Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Royal Caribbean International Silversea Cruises Windstar Cruises Seabourn

Learn More
Find ship facts, itinerary information, and details about children's programs, onboard entertainment, dining, and more on Expedia's Ship Info and Reviews pages.

Cruises by Theme
The mini-golf aboard the Carnival Freedom is a must for families
The right onboard atmosphere plays an important role in selecting a ship. Here are some recommendations on which cruise lines generally appeal to certain types of cruisers.
  • Adventure-seekers and sports enthusiasts:
  • Families
  • The luxury niche
  • traditionalists
  • Romantics
  • Solo Cruisers

Read more  

Which Itinerary for Me?
There's no shortage of ships to choose from
Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, there’s a cruise ship for you. Ship offerings include everything from small, luxury s (less than 200 passengers) to large, 5,000+ person megaships.
  • Megaships
    The newest of the new, these ships hold more than 5,000 passengers and have amenities not commonly found on other ships. Think glassblowing studios, bowling alleys, full scale Coney Island replicas, and more!
  • Large ships
    Larger vessels, the ships of Carnival, Norwegian, or Royal Caribbean, have numerous entertainment options for adults and children; however, the passenger volume is greater. These ships can hold between 3,500–4,000 passengers.
  • Mid-size ships
    Mid-size ships, including some Celebrity, Holland America, and MSC ships, blend the best of both the large and small classes. Passenger count ranges from 700–1,800 but some newer ships hold more.
  • Small ships
    Smaller ships, such as the ships in the Oceania, Silversea, and Seabourn fleets, feel intimate, and the higher crew-to-passenger ratio equates to more personalized service; however, these ships may offer limited activity choices. You’ll find between 200–500 passengers on these ships.


Prices are cruise only, per person, based on double occupancy, and do not include applicable government fees & taxes. Prices and availability are subject to change. Fuel supplement may apply, see terms and conditions.